Former Newark Mayor Cory Booker was greeted with applause from the floor and gallery as he was sworn in as a U.S. senator Thursday by Vice President Joe Biden.

Before the formal swearing in, Mr. Booker was greeted with welcoming remarks from Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, as Mr. Booker made his way around the senate floor shaking hands and giving hugs.

Mr. Booker, a Democrat, won the senate race by 55%, with his opponent, Republican Steve Lonegan, coming in at 44%. The special election was to succeed Sen. Frank Lautenberg, who died in June. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie had previously appointed Republican Jeff Chiesa to fill the late. Sen. Lautenberg’s seat.

Getty Images

Mr. Biden congratulates Mr. Booker after administering a ceremonial swearing-in as his mother Carolyn Booker looks on in the Old Senate Chamber at the U.S. Capitol.

About Washington Wire

Washington Wire is one of the oldest standing features in American journalism. Since the Wire launched on Sept. 20, 1940, the Journal has offered readers an informal look at the capital. Now online, the Wire provides a succession of glimpses at what’s happening behind hot stories and warnings of what to watch for in the days ahead. The Wire is led by Reid J. Epstein, with contributions from the rest of the bureau. Washington Wire now also includes Think Tank, our home for outside analysis from policy and political thinkers.